This summer, Duluth was voted Outside Magazine’s Best Outdoors Town, which is easy to understand in the summer with countless trails to bike, run and hike on. But in the winter, with the majority of days below zero and extremely slippery roads and trails, it’s a little harder for some to understand the appeal of being outside.With many parks within walking distance of campus and outdoor programs held by staff members and students of UMD, there are countless opportunities for students to enjoy the Duluth winter. For Tim Bates, Associate Director of the RSOP, getting outside any time of the year is an important and enjoyable way for students to get exercise and stay fit, as well as release the stress and anxiety that comes with school. “In getting outside, people can see the wonders of the natural world and enjoy life,” Bates said. “Winter should not prevent that; it shouldn’t stop anyone from being out.” Junior Kaelyn Williams, an outdoor education major, tends to feel lazier and more prone to illness when she spends a lot of time indoors. Yet, trying to bundle up and stay safe outside for some fresh air isn’t all that easy. “If you aren’t wearing the proper clothing, it’s usually not that good of an experience,” Williams said. “But, that’s why it is good to have the correct clothes and equipment. Then being cold can never be an excuse to stay inside.” The correct gear is important, according to Bates. When dressing for the outdoors, layering is the safest option. It helps to have synthetic materials that won’t hold too much moisture, but wool or fleece are good options as well. Though there are many outdoor stores in Duluth that offer wide varieties of high quality (but rather pricey) outdoor apparel, many surplus and secondhand stores around Duluth have clothing that is still in good condition. The RSOP equipment rental center does not have clothing available to rent besides rain gear, but students can rent different types of cross country skis, snowshoes, fat-tire bikes, ice climbing gear and camping gear. If students are unsure on how to use this gear, the Outdoor Program offers many programs that provide instruction for various outdoor activities. Upcoming programs include ice climbing at Gooseberry State Park, free cross-country skiing and snowshoeing sessions on Saturdays in February, and winter kiteboarding, among many others.
BY MAKAILA MILLER Staff Reporter